Multi-Direction Connector Coupling for Vibration-Resistant Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors in automotive applications are prone to disconnection due to vibrations and external forces, leading to reliability issues and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector design featuring a coupling element with flexible protuberances in multiple directions, which penetrates a receptacle to secure the connection, enhancing resistance to vibrations and forces while simplifying production and reducing parts, and includes a central portion with additional protuberances for improved reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional blocking elements are used to limit connector movement, then connection stability is improved, but the connector becomes more complex and uses more parts
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides blocking elements for movement limitation, includes flexible portions for vibration absorption, and serves as a structural connector. This merging eliminates the need for separate parts while maintaining connection stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously performs blocking, flexible adaptation, and structural support functions. The single element replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate components, reducing overall device complexity.
2Reliability
If rigid blocking elements are used to prevent connector disconnection, then connection reliability is improved, but resistance to vibrations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element incorporates flexible portions that can deform under vibrational stress, allowing the connector to absorb vibrations while maintaining the blocking function. This flexibility prevents damage from vibrations while preserving connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking elements are designed with variable properties - rigid enough to prevent disconnection but flexible enough to absorb vibrations. The material or structural parameters are optimized to balance these opposing requirements, allowing the same element to provide both reliability and vibration resistance.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple blocking elements are added in different directions, then vibration resistance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple blocking elements in different directions are integrated into a single coupling element structure. The element extends in multiple directions with protuberances that provide blocking functionality without requiring separate components for each direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element serves as a universal component that provides blocking functionality in multiple directions simultaneously. This single multi-directional element replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate blocking elements, reducing complexity while maintaining vibration resistance.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If flexible portions are added to the coupling element, then vibration resistance is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible portions are designed by modifying the geometric or material parameters of the coupling element in a way that can be achieved through standard manufacturing processes. The flexibility is built into the design through parameter optimization rather than requiring complex additional manufacturing steps.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design significantly improves the connector's resistance to vibrations and external forces, ensuring a more reliable connection by limiting movement and preventing damage from incorrect handling, while maintaining a compact and simpler structure.
Implementation Method 1
the coupling element has: at least one first protuberance in a first direction YY' perpendicular to the direction of introduction ZZ'; at least one second protuberance in a second direction XX'
Data Source
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AI summary
Electrical connector (20) which is designed to be connected and coupled in a direction of introduction (ZZ') to a corresponding electrical connector, the electrical connector (20) having a coupling element (21) extending at least in the direction of introduction (ZZ'); and wherein the coupling element (21) has: - at least one first protuberance (21p) in a first direction (YY') perpendicular to the direction of introduction (ZZ'); - at least one second protuberance (21pp) in a second direction (XX'), perpendicular to the first direction (YY') and to the direction of introduction (ZZ').